2020 Dallas Holiday Parade (Online Event)
The 33rd Annual Dallas Holiday Parade had to be reimagined because of COVID-19. But there’s still a virtual version that you can enjoy with your family on Christmas morning. Find the broadcast online (www.dallasholidayparade.com) or on CW33 at 10 a.m. Christmas morning. You’ll enjoy NEW production numbers and clips from the Emmy nominated 2019 TOYOTA Dallas Holiday Parade.
Where: Virtual (Online and on CW33)
When: Christmas Day, 10 a.m.
Cost:
FreeMore info: https://dallasholidayparade.com/
Centro Church: Christmas Eve Drive-Thru Event
Centro Church hosts this drive-thru Christmas Eve gathering at their new location. The theme is: The COVID that couldn’t steal Christmas. They will have FREE tamales, hot chocolate, coffee, popcorn, and more! To save your spot, click on the link to register: shorturl.at/AGUV4
Where: 3822 W Kiest Blvd, Dallas
When: December 24, 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/193711495763592/
Christmas in the Square - Frisco
Frisco Square Property Owners Association, and in partnership with the City of Frisco presents the largest choreographed holiday lights and music show in North Texas. Christmas in the Square returns for its 16th year, full of established favorites and new surprises. Christmas in the Square draws over 750,000 visitors annually. Families, friends and holiday guests from all over come and enjoy the spectacular show. The Holiday lights and music will run daily 6-10 PM. This show is free to the public. You can also skate, visit with Santa, or take a horse carriage ride.
Where: Frisco Square, 8843 Coleman Blvd, Frisco
When: Nightly through Jan 4, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost: Free, with Ice Skating, Visits with Santa, and Horse Carriage rides available for purchase
More info: https://www.friscosquare.com/cits-overview
Cowboy Santa - Fort Worth
Go get your picture taken with “Cowboy Santa” at the Fort Worth Stockyards. Cowboy Santa is there for safe and socially distanced visits and photos at Santa’s Christmas Cabin located in Stockyards Station. Appointments are strongly recommended.
Where: Fort Worth Stockyards Station, 140 E Exchange Ave., Fort Worth
When: December 24, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Cost: $20 - $45
More info: https://fortworthstockyards.com/events/cowboy-santa-arrives-in-stockyards-station/
Dallas Zoo Lights Drive-Thru
They’ve reimagined Dallas Zoo Lights as a drive thru experience this year. You and your family can drive through a holiday safari of lights, across a newly-constructed pathway, and also through familiar parts of Dallas Zoo. You’ll see more than a million lights, elaborate displays, silk-covered animal lanterns, and a penguin ice palace! Tickets must be purchased online.
Where: Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas
When: Now - January 3 from 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Cost: $50-$65
More info: https://www.dallaszoo.com/zoolights/
Deerfield Christmas Lights in Plano
Have you ever checked out the Deerfield neighborhood Christmas lights? They get REALLY into Christmas at Deerfield, and cars line up to take the slow, relaxing ride, as patrons soak in the sights of the season. You can book a carriage ride through the neighborhood if you’d like. And usually there will be several families out selling Christmas treats that you can purchase as you drive by. If you plan to visit the neighborhood during times of high traffic, use the entrances from Quincy, Preston Meadow, or Ohio. There is no reason to wait in lines on Legacy drive which tend to push people into one place.
Where: Sundance Drive, Plano
When: Now - January 1
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/675152326500900/
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
The Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) and Fort Worth Botanic Garden invites visitors to see their newest exhibit “Topiaries in the Garden,” running through June 30, 2021. Featuring 12 plant-based animal shapes, such as elephants, giraffes, and butterflies, the displays are sure to stimulate a sense of wonderment and fascination.
Where: 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth
When: Now through June 30, 2021
Cost: $6 - $12
More info: https://www.fwbg.org/events
Galleria Dallas - Illumination Celebration
The nation's tallest indoor Christmas tree illuminates in grand fashion choreographed to magical sounds of the season!
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, Center Court
When: December 24: Noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm
Cost: Free
More info: https://galleriadallas.com/holiday
Gift of Lights - at Texas Motor Speedway
The Gift of Lights is back at Texas Motor Speedway. You can enjoy the magical sights of the season from the comfort of your own warm car. And since tickets are sold by the carload, why not bring the whole family? For cars and trucks, the cost is $30. You’ll drive under the huge grandstands at TMS, and through a beautiful land celebrating the season.
Where: 3545 Lone Star Circle, Fort Worth
When: Now - January 3
Cost: $30 - $60
More info: http://giftoflightstexas.com/
Gingerbread Village at The Shops at Legacy
Experience holiday fun with a drive through at the Gingerbread Village on the north side of The Shops at Legacy, where everyone can view life-sized gingerbread and sugar cookie characters, trees, candy canes, and snowflakes on colorful facades. Guests can enjoy from their vehicles or stroll around to pose for photo opportunities. Find the village in the center of Lone Star Drive surrounding Apricot Lane and ella bleu. Start your tour by the Toy Factory, and make your way toward Winterland. Then take your picture by Heart Mountain as you move north to Gingy’s Sweets. That’s the perfect spot for a selfie at the “Life is Sweet,” station. Finally, if you’ve been nice this year, don’t forget to send Santa a letter from the mailbox with a direct line to the North Pole.
Where: 5741 Legacy Dr, Plano
When: Daily through January 11, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/414846936560786
Holiday at the Arboretum
Holiday at the Arboretum is one of Dallas’ favorite holiday traditions. You can stroll the garden to see the 25-foot-tall beautifully decorated Victorian-style gazebos that represent each of the 12 Days of Christmas. Also stop by the Christmas Village. Hours are extended into the evenings, the garden becomes aglow with over one million lights. Enjoy visits with Santa Claus, entertainment, shopping, food & beverage options and more.
Where: 8525 Garland Rd., Dallas
When: Daily thru December 31
Cost: $17 for adults, $14 for seniors 65 and older, $12 for children 2-12, and free for Arboretum members and children under two. (Tickets are a bit more expensive for nighttime entry).
More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/
Holiday in the Park: Pathway of Lights (Weatherford)
Find your way through the Christmas tree maze, take a walk around the mesmerizing pathway of lights, catch a magical show on the animated curtain of lights and top it off by visiting their 20 foot animated tree. Food vendors may be on site to help you get the full experience.
Where: Heritage Park Amphitheater, 378 Jack Borden Way, Weatherford
When: Nightly through December 30 from 6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/712551079391115
“I Love Christmas Movies” Pop-Up at the Gaylord Texan
The Gaylord Texan is always a magical place during the holidays. The hotel is putting on a brand new event. This 17,000 sq. ft. multi-sensory pop-up exhibition allows guests to go inside beloved holiday movies like The Polar Express, A Christmas Story, Elf, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Patrons will navigate the exhibits with replica film props, audio clips, and more.
Where: The Gaylord Texan, 1509 Gaylord Trail, Grapevin
When: Now - January 3
Cost: $20.99 to $31.99
More info: https://tickets.gaylordtexan.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=88
Interlochen Christmas Lights
From the Interlochen website: "The hard working elves who create the wonderful Interlochen Christmas Lights year are just ordinary folks who love sharing the spirit of the season. They are rewarded by the enthusiasm from generations of families for whom visiting the Arlington attraction is a Christmas custom. Many have watched this tradition grow from an idea by longtime resident and original developer Bob Findlay to a big time event that draws tourists from all over the region and is known throughout the world. The free display continues thanks to both new and longtime neighbors who say they cherish seeing the sheer delight on the faces of the visitors. The good folks of Interlochen value the Christmas tradition so much they share the merriment by recycling their unused decorations with others in the iconic lakeside neighborhood, and a group of them volunteer to assist elderly neighbors with the task of decorating for the crowds.
Where: Westwood Dr., Arlington
When: December 24 & 25 from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: http://lakeinterlochentx.com/christmas-lights/
Luminova at Globe Life Field
It’s the world premiere of Luminova, where millions of dazzling lights will coat Globe Life Field, the new home of the Texas Rangers, for the next few months. There’s a 10,000 sq. ft. outdoor ice-skating pond, light fixtures that make for great family photo moments, yummy treats, and hot cocoa. Limited tickets are available for each night. There’s something for everyone, including a special light journey through illuminated tunnels, the Luminova Train, performers, kid-friendly displays, and Santa, of course!
Where: Globe Life Field, 734 Stadium Dr, Arlington
When: Now through January 3, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. each night
Cost: $19.99 - $24.99 / Family of 5 (2 adults/3 kids) $79.99
More info: https://www.mlb.com/rangers/tickets/events/luminova
Panther Island Ice
Panther Island Ice returns to Fort Worth this holiday season at the Coyote Drive-In. Fort Worth’s outdoor skating rink offers public skating seven days a week, through January 18, 2021. The rink is real ice, and is located mostly under a large pavilion. Patrons can take advantage of free parking, and the drive-in’s other amenities, like covered seating, gas heaters, and a full menu, including beer and wine. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time, online.
Where: 223 NE 4th St, Fort Worth
When: Daily through January 18
Cost: $13/person ($10 for military, their families, and Tarleton students)
More info: https://pantherislandice.com/
Prairie Lights at Joe Pool Lake
Everybody’s excited for Christmas lights this year - and they’ve been lining up in droves for Prairie Lights at Joe Pool Lake. Prairie Lights is experiencing a significant increase in attendance this year which is resulting in longer than normal wait times for General Admission. But this completely in-car event is well worth your time. And at the midway point of the drive, there’s even a chance to grab some concessions to munch on. Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time...and consider a Fast Pass if you want to cut that wait way down.
Where: Lynn Creek Park at Joe Pool Lake, 5610 Lake Ridge Parkway, Grand Prairie
When: Now - December 31 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost: $30 for cars; $60 for van/bus (or get a Fast Pass for an upcharge)
More info: https://prairielights.org/
Prosper Tunnel of Lights 2020
The neighbors on Beechwood Drive in Whitley Place invite you to the 2020 Tunnel of Lights! After a TOUGH year for everyone, they have come together to present this gift to you. Established in 2018 by the Judd family who wanted to share Christmas joy, this holiday lights walk-through experience is in its third season and has become a beloved tradition! It has evolved into a neighborhood effort to bless all who come to enjoy. All are welcome!
Where: Beechwood Drive, Prosper
When: Now - December 30, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/352755974067290
Radiance! Frisco (or Weatherford, or Decatur)
Radiance brings three drive-through light shows to North Texas this Holiday season. Sip on a cup of hot chocolate as you gawk at two million lights, animated to the tunes of holiday classics. This event is made for the pandemic, because you never leave your car. Drive thru the location at Dr. Pepper Ballpark in Frisco, the Reunion Grounds in Decatur, or the Parker County Fairgrounds in Weatherford.
Where: Dr. Pepper Ballpark, 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco
When: Now - January 3
Cost: $30 - $50 / vehicle (may vary by location)
More info: https://www.radiancechristmas.com/
Santa at The Star in Frisco
If you’re trying to get in that last minute visit with the big man himself, stop by The Star in Frisco. The Cowboys are the official team of Santa, by the way. Photo packages include a printed 5×7 photo and an exclusive Cowboys gift for each child. Digital downloads and additional prints are available for ordering on site. Walk-in appointments will be limited, so they encourage booking online in advance.
Where: The Star, 3675 Gaylord Parkway, Suite 1100 (next to Complexity Gaming). Parking is available in the Silver Parking Garage.
When: December 24, many time slots
Cost: $40 & up
More info: http://www.thestarinfrisco.com/santa/
Snowday at Galleria Dallas
SNOWDAY is an interactive experience for all ages that takes guests on a one-way tour through 11+ holiday-themed rooms over the course of about an hour. SNOWDAY features a dozen unique photo opportunities for guests to have fun, strike a pose, and snap a picture - including 6 extra-special photo moments with integrated cameras and lighting. Professionally processed and sent directly to your phone, your one-of-a-kind pics from SNOWDAY are instantaneously ready to be perfectly posted, shared, and enjoyed with friends and family.
Where: Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas; Level 1, Near Sephora
When: Now through January 3
Cost: $22 ages 13+; $8 ages 4-12; Free for 3 and under
More info: https://www.snowdaydallas.com/
Snow Tubing at the Gaylord Texan
Snow Tubing features an eight-lane tubing hill that’s fun for all ages and covered in REAL SNOW! Zoom down the lanes, race to the bottom, and enjoy unlimited runs on your ticket date. Double riding tubes are available for parents with small children.
Where: The Gaylord Texan, 1509 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine
When: Now - January 3
Cost: $21.99
More info: https://tickets.gaylordtexan.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=60
Sweet Tooth Hotel: Intangible
Intangible showcases some of the top fiber artists from around the United States, including several artists with local ties. Each artist has been given a dedicated space to create their own whimsical fairytale world completely made from fiber. They also have new outdoor cafe seating featuring cereal-themed frozen drinks and cocktails with contactless ordering.
Where: 2316 Victory Park Lane, Dallas
When: December 26/27 (and until March 31)
Cost: $20 adults, $15 kids
More info: https://sweettoothhotel.com/
The Grinch’s Grotto at Stonebriar Centre
If 2020 has been a mean one, you might want to bypass the visit with Santa, and have a date with The Grinch instead. Take a trip to the Grinch's Grotto at Stonebriar Centre in Frisco. You get a private meet and greet with The Grinch, a free holiday photo, plus special giveaways. You could even upgrade to a VIP experience.
Where: Stonebriar Centre, 2601 Preston Rd, Frisco
When: December 24, 26, 27 - various time slots available
Cost: $50 and up
More info: https://www.grinchgrotto.com/
The Trains at NorthPark
The Trains at NorthPark is back for its 33rd season. They call it the most elaborate miniature toy trains exhibit in Texas. Travel across America as the trains navigate 1,300 feet of track, chugging past features like the White House, Time Square, Grand Central Station, the Grand Canyon, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more. Most importantly, the exhibit benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.
Where: NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expy, Dallas
When: Now - January 3
Cost: $10 adults, $5 for ages 2-12
More info: http://www.thetrainsatnorthpark.com/
Vitruvian Lights - at Addison
Vitruvian Park transforms into a magical holiday wonderland during Vitruvian Lights. Parking available onsite at Vitruvian Park; Bella Lane Parking Lot, Park Road Parking Lot, and Ponte Avenue Parking Lot. This year, Vitruvian Park made the decision not to host special events in conjunction with Vitruvian Lights because of the pandemic. But Vitruvian is still encouraging visitors to walk through the park, or drive through and enjoy the beauty.
Where: Vitruvian Park, 3875 Ponte Ave, Addison, TX
When: Daily through January 3, from 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: https://visitaddison.com/tourism/vitruvian-park-events
Whistle Stop Christmas - Cleburne
This time of year, Cleburne is known for its beautiful Christmas light displays around downtown. Hulen Park is lit up with millions of lights. Plus there are other activities for the family.
Where: Hulen Park & Downtown Cleburne, 1010 Hillsboro St.
When: Nightly through December 31
Cost: Free, with events available for purchase
More info: https://www.whistlestopchristmas.com/